Grants For Community Projects From Council’s Project Aspire

Published on: 20 Feb, 2017
Updated on: 23 Feb, 2017

Dozens of community projects from sports to choirs, return to work skills to an allotment for everyone to enjoy, have been backed with new funding from Guildford Borough Council’s Project Aspire.

The ongoing project is working with communities in the north Guildford area, Ash and Merrow to support local initiatives and help strengthen community spirit.

Project Aspire grants recently awarded include support for:

A young leaders programme for 14- to 17-year-olds.
A community allotment at Bushy HIll Junior School, where local people can get involved and grow plants, fruit and vegetables.
The Rhythm of Life community choir.
New equipment for a scout group in Ash Vale.
A work experience project working with Kane FM radio station.

Cllr Iseult Roche, pictured with the leader of Guildford Borough Council, Paul Spooner.

Cllr Iseult Roche, lead councillor for Project Aspire, said: “Aspire is here to help support local people to achieve more in their local community. By working with individuals at grass roots level, things that may never have been possible before are happening.

“This builds community pride, cohesion and neighbourly spirit in our area. We want to help support residents across the borough to take initiative and work with us to get the most for and from their area. We have been thrilled by the variety and nature of the bids that came forward for funding and look forward to seeing their progress.”

Residents who would like to start their own group, or who have an idea to help build community sprit, are invited to get in touch with the Project Aspire team on 01483 444150. The council’s community wardens are also pleased to help – email NGwardens@guildford.gov.uk or AAVTwardens@guildford.gov.uk.